Fans pay tribute to Michael Jackson before 52nd birthday

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Michael Jackson fans will pay tribute to the late King of Pop Saturday by reprising his 1983 "Thriller" video on the eve of what would have been his 52nd birthday.

Organizers are hoping enough zombie dancers turn out for "The Thrill Lives On: Celebrating 52 Years of Michael Jackson" to set a Southern California record for what is becoming a retro-pop tradition.

The free event, sponsored by the Riverside Downtown Partnership and the California Riverside Ballet, gets under way at 1 p.m. at the Main Street mall.

Choreographer BJ Brasier, who worked with Jackson, will orchestrate the dance, offering free lessons to anyone, regardless of experience -- or rhythm.

Thrilling Weekend in Riverside

On Saturday, the eve of the late Michael Jackon's 52nd birthday, hundreds of fans will attempt to break a record for most people to perform the "Thriller" dance routine.

(Published Friday, Aug. 27, 2010)

"Michael had a huge impact on my life as a child," said Brasier. "I remember watching him and thinking, I want to dance and move like that."

The 14-minute "Thriller" video, which was directed by John Landis and sold more than 9 million units, is listed by Guinness World Records as "the most successful video" ever.

Before recreating "Thriller," a Michael Jackson costume contest will be held, and the TMK All-Star Band will perform Jackson hits, with guest appearances by local entertainers Eddie Garcia and Courtney Miller.

Michael Jackson's Evolving Style

About 4 p.m., dancers will assemble in front of the courthouse for the "zombie boogie."